Dangers of Snoring and Solutions

At Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics our goal is to enhance the quality of life of our patients who come to use for their dental health needs and this includes snoring. Snoring is a common condition that can affect anyone. Occasional snoring may not be serious; however, if you are a habitual snorer, you risk impairing your sleep quality and developing poor daytime function. 

Frequent snorers can be at risk for serious health problems, including obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep apnea creates a variety of problems, including long interruptions of breathing, poor night’s sleep, chronic headaches and daytime sleepiness, and fatigue. At Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics we provide a night guard as a treatment option. It has a unique inner lining that is softened by heat during the fitting process. This allows for a custom fit and is designed to keep your lower jaw comfortable and positioned slightly forward while sleeping.

Many of our patients prefer a night guard as a practical and less invasive alternative to CPAP therapy. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

The Temporomandibular Joint: Explained

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is the jaw joint. You have two of them which work together as a pair, one in front of each ear. Without this joint, you would not be able to chew your food, yawn, or even speak. The joints connect the lower jaw bone (mandible) to the temporal bones of the skull on each side of the head. When this joint begins to cause facial pain, headaches, and/or jaw muscle stiffness, Dr. Cynthia Wong can develop a treatment plan.

When you open your mouth, the rounded upper ends of the mandible on each side of the jaw glide along the joint socket at the base of the skull. They slide back to their original position when you close your mouth. This joint is unique in the sense that the articular surfaces of the bones never actually come in contact with one another – they are separated by an articular disk. This disk splits the joint into two synovial joint cavities, each lined by a synovial membrane. It is important to keep in mind that occasional clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint or chewing muscles is common, but if you have a serious concern for TMD, you should schedule a consultation with Dr. Cynthia Wong.

If you have questions about the temporomandibular joint or TMJ/TMD, please give us a call. To learn about the services we provide at the practice, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Prevent Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is the destruction of your tooth enamel, the hard, outer layer of your teeth. Hundreds of different types of bacteria live on our teeth, gums, tongue and other crevices in the mouth. Some are helpful, but some can be harmful such as those that play a role in the tooth decay process. At Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics, we want our patients to know that good oral and dental hygiene can help you avoid cavities and tooth decay.

When a tooth is exposed to acid frequently – for example, if you frequently eat foods or drinks containing sugar and starches – the repeated cycles of acid attacks cause the enamel to continue to lose minerals. This will cause a white spot to appear if the minerals have been lost. When this happens, this is a sign of early decay.

You can help prevent tooth decay by following these tips:

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.


• Clean between your teeth daily with floss or an interdental cleaner.


• Eat nutritious and balanced meals and limit snacking.


• Visit your dentist for professional cleanings and oral examination.

If you need assistance maintaining your oral hygiene routine, give us a call. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Benefits of Traditional Braces

Dental braces are used to straighten crooked teeth, align upper and lower jaws, improve the aesthetics of smiles and faces, and relieve pressure on temporomandibular joints. The most inexpensive type of braces for adults and children are the traditional, stainless steel versions. Here at Dr. Cynthia Wong Orthodontics, if you are searching for a straighter smile, then we can provide you with that winning smile you’ve always dreamed of.

Obviously, the only drawback to wearing traditional braces is how visible they are. However, metal brackets are the sturdiest option, which means less chance of damage to the appliance and less time spent in the dentist’s chair. While it might not always seem beneficial to you, traditional braces are there to stay for the duration of treatment.  Because traditional braces exert a fair amount of force on the teeth, adjustment takes far less time than it would with alternatives.

If you are searching to straighten your teeth we have a variety of options to make that happen. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.

Break Those Tender Teeth Habits

If you avoid eating cold foods or drinking hot beverages because your teeth are a little tender, it may be time to get to the root of this problem. If you have sensitive teeth, with Dr. Cynthia Wong may recommend dental sealants or fluoride treatments to decrease sensitivity. Sometimes the solution is simply breaking bad habits. If you catch yourself performing any of the following habits, do your best to break them.

• You’re brushing too hard – over time, if you brush with too much force, you can wear down the protective layers of your teeth and expose the microscopic hollow tubes or canals that lead to your dental nerves. When these tubules are exposed, tooth sensitivity is a result.


• You’re eating too many acidic foods – If the pathways to your nerves are exposed, acidic foods will leave you in pain.


• You have tooth decay – If you have tooth decay, it’s easy for bacteria to accumulate in these tiny crevices, which causes acid build-up and enamel breakdown.


• You’re a tooth grinder – Grinding your teeth can wear down your enamel. This exposes the dentin and causes sensitive teeth.

If you experience tooth sensitivity, please give us a call to discuss your treatment options. To learn more about the services we provide at our office, visit www.drcynthiawong.com for more information. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Cynthia Wong in Orland Park, IL, call 708-444-8341.